Reclaiming the Narrative: Black Voices in Football Media...
The football media landscape is shifting as young black presenters are creating their own platforms and supported by organisations like BCOMS providing greater access to the big media platforms...
In the evolving landscape of football media, a powerful shift is happening. Black creators and commentators are reclaiming the narrative, infusing the sport with fresh perspectives, and bringing some sauce into the fold. This transformation is not just about representation; it’s about black people owning their stories, changing the way players are perceived, and advocating for them in meaningful ways.
The media landscape is diversifying, thanks to pioneers like Leon Mann and Rodney Hinds, founders of BCOMS (Black Collective of Media in Sport). Their work has opened doors for many people of colour, creating more opportunities to enter the media space and bring some colour to the nations screens. The impact of their efforts is clear: diversifying presenters leads to broader audience reach and deeper engagement.
Football fans are increasingly seeking commentators who look like them and understand their experiences. They’re tired of hearing the same voices with unconscious biases discussing Black footballers. In 2020, a study conducted with RunRepeat highlighted the racial bias in football commentary, revealing how players’ skin tones influenced the way they were spoken about.
Platforms like Threesixtytv, Versus, Goal Diggers, The Rondo along with new age football journalists and content creators like Mayowa Quadri, Culture Cams, and Sirayah Shiraz, are answering this call. They’re giving the younger generation what they need—insightful, culturally relevant content that speaks to their interests and experiences.
Fans want football journalists to utilise their time and access to the players to ask insightful and interesting questions that go beyond surface-level. We’ve all seen the clip of Noni Madueke being asked about Cole Palmer during his England debut—an example of the need for more thoughtful and relevant questions. Black commentators and creators are stepping up, changing the narrative around players, and ensuring their stories are told with the depth and respect they deserve.
By reclaiming the narrative, Black voices in football media are not only changing perceptions but also advocating for the players. This advocacy is essential in creating a more inclusive and fair media landscape, where every player is given the recognition they deserve.
This Black History Month, we celebrate the trailblazers who are breaking barriers in the media space. Their work is transforming football, making it more culturally relevant, and inspiring a whole generation. As we continue to diversify the media, we ensure that football remains a sport for all, rich with diverse voices and perspectives.